Exploring the Natural Wonders of Furnas, Azores
Travel Guide to São Miguel's Island Thermal Town
Furnas is a picturesque thermal village situated in the heart of São Miguel, the largest island in the Azores. Furnas is renowned for its stunning natural beauty, with lush green landscapes, volcanic hot springs, and vibrant botanical gardens. Known for its breathtaking and unique natural beauty, Furnas is characterized by its abundant geothermal activity, evident in the steaming fumaroles and natural geysers that enhance the landscape, but also by its lush green landscapes and beautiful botanical gardens.
This region is one of the most intriguing and unique places to visit on the island of São Miguel, so follow our travel guide of Furnas to ensure you don’t the top things to do in this formidable region.
Table of Contents
What to see in Furnas
1. Furnas Boilers (Caldeiras das Furnas)
In the middle of Furnas town lies a spectacular display of volcanic activity, with numerous boilers and geysers that emerged following the collapse of a volcanic cone in 1630. The magma, just beneath the earth's crust, heats up small rainwater ponds to temperatures ranging from 70º to 100ºC. These steaming ponds are scattered throughout Courela Garden (Jardim da Courela), releasing sulfuric vapors that craft a surreal vista known as the Enchanted Valley (Vale Encantado).
Visitors have the unique opportunity to sample the volcanic therapeutic waters from two distinct springs within the garden. Side by side, they offer a stark contrast: Doctor Miguel Henriques’ spring gushes with hot water that has a strong, fuel-like taste, while Prata's Water (Água da Prata) spring is a source of cold, effervescent water.
2. Furnas Lake (Lagoa das Furnas)
Furnas Lake, located in a volcanic crater and embraced by verdant forests and picturesque landscapes, is a must-visit attraction in Furnas. It offers visitors the chance to stroll leisurely around its perimeter, indulge in a relaxing picnic, or engage in water activities like kayaking or paddle boating on its tranquil waters.
Moreover, the picturesque lake's edge is graced by a stunning secondary boiler, which fills the surrounding air with unique volcanic fumes and colors the gnarled tree trunks in vibrant orange tones. This mesmerizing landscape promises to leave a lasting impression on any visitor who takes the time to explore its wonders.
It is here that the Azores' most renowned gastronomic delight is prepared using the geothermal warmth of the town's volcanic activity - the Cozido das Furnas. Arriving at the lake around midday, one can witness local eateries retrieving this unique dish directly from the earth, a testament to the island's vibrant culinary tradition.
3. Mata Jardim José do Canto
South of Furnas Lake, visitors can immerse themselves in the splendid Mata Jardim José do Canto, a historic botanical garden home to an impressive collection of over 2,000 plant species, showcasing both rare and exotic plants from across the globe, alongside native Azorean flora. The garden features meandering paths and trails that lead through various themed areas, including the tranquil bamboo forest, the lush fern garden, and an extensive collection of centenary camellias.
A scenic 3.5 km hiking trail connects the fern garden to one of the garden's highlights, the Rosal Jump (Salto do Rosal), where crystalline waters cascade from a strikingly vertical natural wall into the tranquil forest floor.
In addition to its botanical wonders, the garden also houses the Chapel of Our Lady of Victories, a 19th-century church renowned for its intricate Neo-Gothic architecture and exquisite stained glass windows, making this destination a perfect blend of nature and history.
Opening Times:
Winter (October to March): 09H - 17H
Summer (April to September): 09H -19H
Prices:
4€ per person over 12 years old
2€ for seniors (65+ years old) and children (8 to 12 years old).
Free for children under 8 years old
4. Pico do Ferro Viewpoint
Pico do Ferro offers one of the captivating views of all of the Azores. This charming viewpoint overlooks the tranquil Furnas Lake, where the volcanic cone’s landscape reflects in the water. Additionally, from the Caldeiras das Furnas (also known as Fumarolas), the volcanic fumes rise, filling the air with mist and creating an otherworldly atmosphere.
For hikers, Furnas is a paradise. The Pico do Ferro trail (PRC22 SMI) is a short and relatively easy path that takes about 3 hours to complete. Starting at Grená Park on the northern edge of Furnas Lake, this circular route provides stunning vistas of the Furnas Valley.
If you’re feeling adventurous, Grená Park offers more than just hiking. Explore hidden waterfalls, rent kayaks or bikes, and immerse yourself in the natural beauty of this Azorean gem. Keep in mind that there’s an entry fee of €10 per person (though children under 5 can explore for free).
6. Dive Into The Hot Springs of Terra Nostra Park (Parque Terra Nostra)
The ex-libris of the Furnas experience centered around its stunning outdoor thermal pools, enveloped by lush forests and gardens. The main options for these outdoor thermal pools are Poça da Dona Beija and Terra Nostra Park.
Terra Nostra Park is noteworthy for its expansive grounds and magnificent main pool. This botanical garden, established in 1775, features an impressive variety of rare and exotic plant species, including Ginkgo Biloba and a collection of over 600 different camellia species. The iron-rich waters flow gently through the gardens in meandering streams at a soothing temperature of 40ºC. Visitors can also enjoy two thermal jacuzzis and one large thermal tank, ideal for swimming within the park.
Soaking in these pools is reputed to have healing and rejuvenating benefits, providing a deep sense of relaxation. Guests at the Terra Nostra Garden Hotel enjoy unlimited access to the gardens and can take advantage of the pools during the night, enhancing this tranquil experience. The hotel, built in 1935 in a striking Art Deco style, offers a nostalgic atmosphere that complements the elegance of the surrounding XVIII-century gardens, ensuring a memorable visit.
Opening Times:
Every Day: 10H30 - 16H30
Prices:
16€ per person over 18 years old
13.60€ for seniors (65+ years old) and children (6 to 17 years old).
Free for children under 5 years old
Family Price (2 children + 2 adults): 53.60€
6. Quenturas Garden (Jardim das Quenturas)
Located at center of the town, side by side with the popular Camping Area, lies the enchanting Quenturas Garden. This vibrant and meticulously maintained flowering garden, adorned with manicured paths and a serene pond, offers the ideal place to relax and unwind after a fulfilling day of exploration at Frunas.
In the gently flowing river, Poça da Tia Silvina provides everyone with the delightful opportunity to soak their feet in the soothing thermal therapeutic waters for free. The little ones can joyfully enjoy the designated play areas along with a beautifully crafted waterfall, which artfully conceals an aquarium showcasing the fascinating local fauna of the river.
What to eat in Furnas
While in Furnas you have to try the most emblematic dish of the Azores which is only made in this tow, the Cozido das Furnas. The Cozido das Furnas is a stew made by cooking different cuts of meats and local vegetables in a large pot. The pot is then buried in the ground of the Furnas Lake Caldeira and left to simmer for several hours to cook with earth heat. The result is a flavorful and hearty dish that is enjoyed by locals and visitors alike.
A wide range of local restaurants offer this specially. Among the most famous and renowned are:
Where to stay
Furnas is an impressive little village has lots to see and do, so you will most probably want to spend 2 or 3 days there to fully explore and absorb this unique and serene atmosphere. Spending the night at Furnas is highly recommended.
The town offers an extensive range of lodging options from palace hotels which will make you travel in time to fancy looking spa hotels. There is also the option to more modest accommodation at home stays for those who are on a budget.
How to get to Furnas
São Miguel is a small island with limited public transportation. The airport is in Ponta Delgada, the islands’ capital. There are no trains, and buses are rare, slow, and hard to find.
Two companies operate buses from Ponta Delgada to Furnas: Caetano Raposo & Pereiras and Varela & Ca. The buses take about 1.5 hours, but updated schedules and prices may be hard to find, particularly for non-Portuguese speakers.
By car, the journey takes 35 minutes, with taxi fares ranging from €50 to €65.
Renting a car in Ponta Delgada is cost-effective, as roads are well-maintained and, parking is plenty and typically free. The car also allows access to more remote areas, where public transportation is nonexistent. We will let some good options for you to search and compare rental cars in São Miguel are:
Best time to visit Furnas
São Miguel boasts mild temperatures year-round. The climate is characterized by high humidity, and persistent cloud coverage and, even in Summer, encountering occasional rain is not rare.
From October to March, the island experiences more frequent rains, with temperatures varying between 12º and 17ºC.
The driest conditions are found from June to August with temperatures ranging from 20º to 25ºC.
Furnas village is famous for its beautiful gardens with colorful flowers, especially Camellias. The best time to see them is from December to May when the Camellias are in full bloom. Key spots to view Camellias are Mata José do Canto and Terra Nostra Botanical Garden, which have large collections that draw visitors annually.
Is it worth visiting Furnas?
Overall, Furnas is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in natural beauty, relaxation, and good food. Whether traveling alone, with friends, or with family, there is something for everyone to enjoy in this beautiful town in the Azores.
The lush landscapes, vibrant geothermal features, and serene lakes provide a stunning backdrop for outdoor enthusiasts. Visitors can explore the famous hot springs, take leisurely walks through botanical gardens, or partake in the traditional culinary experience of “cozido,” a stew cooked in volcanic soil.
Furnas also offers various activities, such as hiking, bird watching, and wellness retreats, making it suitable for different types of travelers. The welcoming atmosphere and rich cultural heritage further enhance the appeal of this hidden gem.
Whether you seek adventure, tranquility, or gourmet delights, Furnas promises a memorable experience.
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